BACKGROUND:

The Founding of Dream-A-Wish Foundation was made possible by
Paul and Betty Jo Chernay, of Coopersburg, PA.

Pastor Woodrow Woody Keiser & Patricia Keiser established the Dream-A-Wish, Inc. d.b.a. The Dream-A-Wish Foundation on April 4th, 1997.  Starting with their own personal funds, they built this non-profit foundation from the ground up.  Within only the first forty-eight months of operation, the dreams of 37 children were fulfilled, and much media attention was brought to the organization.  With growing community awareness & support, this program aims to continue to fulfill the dreams of physically or mentally challenged special needs children, in Central Florida.  To read an important message from Pastor Woodrow Woody Keiser, please click here.

OUR GOALS:
Dream-A-Wish has a goal to stop the clock and give Central Florida families a few quality hours away from pain, worry, and stress.  This happens when we complete a dream and give them wonderful memories to last a lifetime.  We want to give those who have only a few tomorrows a happy time today, and to give physically or mentally challenged special needs children a chance to continue their education at home.  We strive to provide these families with happiness, caring, love, closeness, cherished memories, & a hope to rebuild self-esteem and a sense of belonging in the Central Florida community.

HOW MANY DREAMS HAVE COME TRUE:
Since our founding on April 4th, 1997, we have completed over 130 children's "once-in-a-lifetime" dreams, ranging from $700.00 to $8,000.00 each, and we're working on more.  Visit our Kids page to see just a few of the beautiful faces we've brought smiles to, and read what once in a lifetime dreams they received.  Over 400 other wishes have been fulfilled for children and seniors, on a smaller scale, ranging from $70.00 to $500.00.

OUR COSTS:
It depends upon the dream; specialized equipment varies widely.  The most requested is to go to Disney World, Sea World, Magic Kingdom, and Epcot Center.  The actual value of a Disney trip runs $4,800 to $5,800.  We are registered with Give Kids the World in Kissimmee.  With transportation meals and spending money the trip can run Dream-A-Wish $1,800.00.

DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE:
Dream-A-Wish is a qualified non-profit tax exempt organization.  We hold a 501-C3 License under the Internal Revenue Code.  All donations for which you receive no benefit or service are 100% tax deductible as a charitable contribution.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT:
We do not have a paid staff; our organization is run entirely by volunteers.  We get NO grants from Federal, State, or local Government.  We raise funds through golf tournaments, bingo, yard sales, raffles, and some private donations from people like you.  Individuals read of our ongoing projects and events, and call to render small contributions.  Absolutely every cent of donations goes towards special needs children.  We also receive financial support from Microflex Inc., Margarita Society, Galaxy Fundraising, Check On Hold, Cash Advance, Halifax Hospital, Hawaii Miniature Golf, United Way, and Publix Supermarket Charities.  We are very pleased to have them as part of our family.  May God bless them.

FAMILY INVOLVEMENT:
Whenever a child's request is approved, we involve the whole family - mother, father, brothers, and sisters.  The entire family goes on trips, and the child receives gifts.

SELECTION:
 Once we get a referral from an Agency or Parent, we bring it to our Board.  The situation and all supporting documents are brought up for review, and a decision is made on how to proceed.  No child in need will be turned away.  We then seek the sponsors like you to make it happens, and/or coordinate the fundraisers to achieve our goals.
  

Would You Like to Help?